Influenza remains a concern – County 3

Spring may have arrived, but the flu season continues. Although influenza cases are prevalent and flu-related deaths appear to be on the rise, health officials said the comparison of influenza cases reported from one season to the next or from one week to the next might not be valid because many factors influence testing and notification.

The 2017-2018 influenza season was severe in Wyoming, and surveillance for influenza and other influenza activity indicators were notable for the intensity and volume of reported cases in the US. 39, whole of the state. A record number of reported cases, as well as high rates of outbreaks, hospitalizations and deaths badociated with influenza have been reported.

This season follows a similar pattern. Deborah Haar, Sheridan County Chief Public Health Nurse, said the season could reach its peak sooner or later, but that in general, the northern hemisphere can expect to an influenza activity from September or from October to April or May.

By the end of February, Wyoming health-care providers had reported 480 cases of influenza. However, actual levels of influenza and influenza syndromes are probably higher.

Although influenza is a notifiable disease in the state of Wyoming, not all health care providers report these results. In addition, many sick people do not consult a doctor. Of those who do, many are not tested for the flu.

Death certificate tracking is the best surveillance system for capturing and identifying influenza-related pneumonia and deaths in Wyoming. According to the CDC, however, flu is rarely found on death certificates. Screening for seasonal influenza infections is also not common, especially among older adults, who are at greatest risk for seasonal influenza complications and death. As a result, public health officials may not identify deaths badociated with influenza in many cases. Therefore, this surveillance system may underestimate the true impact of flu-related deaths in the state.